The OIU's mission is to engage, connect and support its Old Ignatians; support the College in promoting education and a Jesuit way of life; and to be men for others by serving the broader community. 

Some of the highlights in this month's newsletter, under each of these pillars, include:

Engage – The team is preparing the inaugural connectOR alumni magazine, celebrating highlights from 2026. For the first time in many years, it will include a "Notes from Old Boys" section, alongside advertising opportunities for Old Ignatians wishing to showcase their businesses. We have also launched an "OR in New York" WhatsApp Group for Old Ignatians living in, or visiting, New York. Recently, the OIU presented to the Class of 2026, welcoming them to the next chapter of their Riverview journey. Their 6+ years at Riverview may be ending, but their 66+ years as an Old Ignatian are just beginning. 

Connect – The Old Ignatians' Jazz Band formed earlier this year and have put together a toe-tapping performance at the Jesuit Mission Bazaar. There is a busy calendar ahead, including the Older Ignatians' Club lunch on Thursday, 29 October, when Robert Craven (OR62) will speak on "Aged Care and Financial Planning"; the All Souls Memorial Mass and Archives Tour on Sunday, 8 November; and OIU Christmas Drinks in the CBD on Thursday, 12 November. The Riverview community is also invited to celebrate 30 years of Irish-Riverview Gap exchanges on 14 November. Tickets and corporate tables are now available for the March 2027 LIVE and Unscripted Long Lunch - secure yours before it sells out. 

Support – The OIU Mental Health Walks continue on the last Friday of each month, with the next walk at Centennial Park on Friday, 25 September. Join us for a walk, coffee and conversation with fellow Old Ignatians. The next OIU Men's Mental Health Talk will be held at The Union Hotel on Thursday, 29 October - save the date. This month's newsletter also looks at the value of developing a personal mental health plan. The OIU Mentoring Program offers Old Ignatians at every career stage an opportunity to learn, give back and strengthen our shared values of service, leadership and community. 

Serve – The Jesuit Mission Bazaar was held on Saturday, 12th September, with volunteers supporting OIU's Ham Wheel, BBQ, Wine Auction and Ignatian Wheel. Thank you to all Old Ignatians and the Advancement Office for making it another excellent and enjoyable fundraiser. 

Congratulations to the College on an outstanding season in debating and rugby, and to our very own Old Ignatian sporting clubs, with both the rugby and football clubs winning their competitions. 

Principal Mark Tannock reflects on leadership, while College Rector Fr Tom Renshaw SJ (OR90) writes about the Jesuit Mission Bazaar, early Jesuits and Sevenhill Winery. 

This month's Alumni Industry Focus showcases Heads in Hospitality. Explore their stories, and dozens more, in this edition of the OIU's News & Views newsletter.  

Thank you to everyone who helps make the OIU newsletter possible. If you have a story about an Old Ignatian worth sharing, we would love to hear from you.

Brian Shanahan (OR87)

OIU President (2026-2027)